The Real Poz Guys of Atlanta III

The Poz Guys pictured above are (left to right) James, myself, Antron, Eric, and Craig. I'm the only one who isn't single; I know they would appreciate me mentioning that.

Why Andy Cohen isn't badgering me with phone calls to bring this series to Bravo, I'll never know.

Nearly four years ago, I invited four friends living with HIV over to my place for a night of devouring brownies and sharing secrets, while my friend Charles captured it on video. The result was "You Gotta Have Friends," the first episode of what would be renamed "The Real Poz Guys of Atlanta." The second episode was posted more than a year later (you can see a recap and both previous episodes here). And now, episode three.

These guys must be getting the hang of this, because we discussed and revealed things like never before. From crystal meth addiction to our mothers, nothing was off limits. There's even a (NSFW-ish) chat about tops and bottoms and modern gay sexual politics. And dealing with loss. And reaching out for help when you really need it.

I'm not going to lie, I'm proud of this video. It's clear that my editing skills have improved since our first episode along with the group's ability to keep it real. More importantly, the video series represents a lot of issues I feel passionately about  combating HIV stigma with honesty about our status, the crucial importance of social support, and living joyfully. That, and I love hearing my friends talk dirty for a good reason.

Inspiring stories of people living with HIV.

I really hope you share this one with your friends and networks (select one of the share features below). I think it represents what this site does best. And judging from the emails I receive, there's a real need for people with HIV, particularly the newly diagnosed, to know that life, and friendship, doesn't end with a positive test result.

I look forward to your comments! Thanks for watching, and please be well.

Comment by: howiegg
(amsterdam)
Wed., Oct. 29, 2014 at 5:10 am UTC
wonderful..to see the sharing and the changes that happen when someone feels supported and understood! in awe of ypur bravery to be yourselves..and realize that if we don't "tell our truth" that we really never heal.thank you..keep em coming....

Anyway .... For James ... I've have HepB for a few years and I was vaccinated for it, three times. It simply did not work. Although, the pill I take, keeps it at bay, down to zero, but I've still not adapted to to the vaccine. So, kudos to you, for living with hiv & hepb. I can understand. :}

No shame in me, id'ng as a bottom, although, I might look like a John Wayne, Marlboro type (not a smoker here), I'd rather bottom. :}}}

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Mark S. King has been an active AIDS activist, writer and community organization leader since the early 1980s in Los Angeles. He has been an outspoken advocate for prevention education and for issues important to those living with HIV.

Diagnosed in 1985, Mark has held positions with the Los Angeles Shanti Foundation, AID Atlanta and AIDS Survival Project, and is an award-winning writer. He continues his volunteer work as an AIDS educator and speaker for conferences and events.

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